Learning About Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus

By Jayne Rutledge


A fungal infection of the toenails, called onychomycosis, occurs when fungal cells invade the nail bed and nail. The infection causes the nail to become thicker, yellow or brown colored, and brittle. It typically begins with a small white spot that spreads to the entire nail and nail bed. This infection is often difficult to eradicate and tends to return if it is not taken care of completely. An alternative that is available is laser treatment for toenail fungus.

A fungal infection can come with many undesirable and unsightly symptoms. The nails can become brown or yellow, brittle, and thicker. It is common for the texture to change as well. Nails can gradually change shape, to a more pronounced curve, and become flaky on the edges. If the condition persists and worsens, the nail can separate from the bed as the nail continues to become more curved.

Previously, the only treatments for these fungal infections were topical and oral medications. Unfortunately, topical medications are not generally effective in completely getting rid of the infection totally. Oral medications usually take months to work and have side effects many people do not want, in addition to the potential interactions with other medicines. The lasers that are used are approved by the FDA to aid in the removal of a fungal infection and do not pose the same risks as traditional treatments.

Treatments that use lasers for fungal infections can help eradicate the cells in less time than the oral medications. The lasers that are used will involve the energy from light in either a pulse or varying wavelengths. Light energy is directed to the affected toe or toes, and the fungal cells are killed by the heat they absorb. It is a painless procedure and no damage to the surrounding tissue occurs.

A laser treatment of toenail fungus is not considered a surgical procedure and is safely performed in your doctor's office. More than one session will be required. Many patients see results within three sessions, but some instances may require more. One session usually lasts about twenty minutes, or it could be as long as thirty minutes.

If you are concerned about the cost, it is important to contact your insurance provider before you decide to start this procedure. Some insurance companies consider the procedure as cosmetic and will not cover the costs, leaving you to pay for the whole thing. Other insurance companies may cover the procedure, but only a partial amount.

Currently, there have not been any side effects reported. There are not any restrictions based on age or health. Following the sessions, normal activities can be resumed, including using nail polish and wearing shoes. Due to the lack of side effects, it is a recommended procedure for people who cannot use the oral or topical medications.

Laser treatment for toenail fungus is becoming a popular way to get rid of the problem. It is not an invasive procedure and does not come with a risk of unwanted side effects or dangerous interactions. You should talk with your doctor about all of your options and which one he or she thinks would be the best for your situation.




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